Kailash Yatra by helicopter from Kathmandu

Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a visit to the esteemed Pashupatinath Temple. Afterward, proceed to the Jal Narayan Temple and the Guheshwari Temple. Subsequently, our representative will escort the group to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport for your flight to Nepalgunj. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj after a one-hour flight, you will board a bus that will take you to your pre-arranged hotel. There, you will have the opportunity to meet fellow travelers who have joined the group from Lucknow. In the evening, a brief orientation session will be conducted, during which our Kailash Yatra guide and expert will share their insights and address any questions you may have regarding the Kailash Mansarovar journey. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided at the hotel in Nepalgunj.

The journey from Nepalgunj to Simikot presents a significant challenge, as the operation of the small aircraft is entirely contingent upon prevailing weather conditions. This route is characterized by frequent weather fluctuations, which can lead to both short and extended delays in flight operations to and from Simikot. To facilitate a timely departure, we will arrive at Nepalgunj airport early in the morning, as advised by the local guide, to secure seats on the earliest available flight to Simikot. Upon landing at the small airport in Simikot after a 45-minute flight, you will find our representative ready to escort you to the guesthouse that has been reserved for your stay. Our representative will also liaise with the airline regarding your checked luggage, ensuring its delivery to your accommodation in Simikot. The remainder of your time in Simikot will be free for you to acclimatize to the local weather conditions.

It is essential to note that : drawing from our previous experiences with weather-related issues, we have incorporated an overnight stay in Simikot before proceeding to Tibet. Should the weather conditions and circumstances allow, the local representative may arrange for a helicopter journey to Hilsa or Taklakot on the same day.

Begin your day with an early breakfast or packed snacks before proceeding to Simikot airport to board your helicopter to Hilsa. Upon arrival in Hilsa, you will need to traverse a swinging bridge to cross the river and reach the opposite bank, where you will complete the necessary formalities at Nepal immigration. Afterward, you will walk across the border and board a Chinese bus that will take you to the China immigration office, located just a five-minute drive away. A brief drive of 22 kilometers will lead you to your hotel in Taklakot. Prior to arriving in Taklakot, you will need to undergo a customs check at the Burang customs office. After a long day of travel, you will find yourself in Taklakot, which is situated at an elevation of 4,025 meters. If you experience breathlessness or any symptoms of altitude sickness, please remain calm and consult our tour guide for advice. Health issues related to high altitude are quite common in this region. It is essential to eat well, stay hydrated with water, juices, and other nutritious beverages, adhere to your guide's instructions, and avoid exposure to strong winds. Spend time in the hotel to acclimatize. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided at the hotel in Taklakot.

Important remark: Hilsa is a remote border village in Nepal characterized by extremely harsh climatic conditions. It is essential for all group members to cross the Nepal-China border together, as travel will be conducted under a group permit and visa. Should there be any delays in crossing the border, individuals are encouraged to spend their time engaging in relaxation, yoga, meditation, or other personal activities. Such delays may lead to health concerns, as the dusty air, intense heat, and cold winds can be quite challenging to endure. Although a stay in Hilsa is not scheduled, if it extends beyond a day, we may encounter shortages of food and other essential amenities. Therefore, please ensure you bring your own water bottles, light snacks, dried fruits, energy bars, and remain patient. It is important to cooperate with the crew members, who will strive to provide you with the utmost comfort in this difficult environment.

This day is designated for rest in Taklakot (Burang) to facilitate acclimatization. You are encouraged to relax at your hotel and refrain from strenuous activities. However, you may take a brief stroll to explore the nearby markets. Should you wish to purchase items such as walking sticks, gloves, hats, shoes, empty water bottles, fruits, or similar supplies for your journey, there are several shops available in the Taklakot market. Please be mindful that these shops close as darkness falls, so it is advisable to plan your visit to the market accordingly.

Today marks a significant occasion as we journey to the sacred site of Lake Manasarovar. Following breakfast, we will embark on a bus ride to Lake Mansarovar. The journey, lasting approximately one and a half hours, will take us through stunning mountainous landscapes, leading us to Lake Rakshas Taal, which is located in close proximity to Lake Mansarovar. Known as the ‘Lake of Demons’ or ‘Ravan Taal,’ this site offers a breathtaking view of Mount Kailash, which majestically rises above the surrounding peaks. We will pause at Rakshas Taal to appreciate the natural beauty and capture it through photographs before continuing our journey to Lake Mansarovar. A brief drive will bring us to Chui Gompa, our accommodation for the night near Lake Mansarovar. The remainder of the day will be free for you to explore the enchanting Mansarovar Lake, partake in a holy bath, and engage in rituals and prayers along the riverbank, as well as other personal activities. We will arrange a shower tent for the ladies by the lake. You may also find a suitable spot near the lake for puja or havan, allowing you to perform rituals according to your traditions. Meals and overnight accommodations will be provided at the guesthouse.

About Lake Mansarovar: Please be informed that the sole source of water in this area is the sacred Manasarovar Lake. Recognized as one of the highest freshwater lakes globally, its water is esteemed for its purifying properties for both the body and spirit. This natural water is utilized for various purposes, including cooking, bathing, and laundry. In instances where packaged water is scarce, boiled or hot water from the lake is provided for drinking. If you find this arrangement unsatisfactory, it is advisable to use water purification tablets.

Mansarovar Lake in the night:  Mansarovar Lake is located only a short walk from your guesthouse. You have the opportunity to visit the lake at night to appreciate its beauty illuminated by the moonlight. Numerous myths and tales are linked to the nocturnal view of this sacred lake, which travelers can witness firsthand. While it is generally safe to venture out late at night, it is recommended to stay in a group and bring along one of your guides or sherpas for assistance.

This morning, we will rise early, refresh ourselves, and embark on a drive to Darchen, located just 35 kilometers from Chiu Gompa. Darchen serves as the primary administrative center of the Kailash region, featuring basic infrastructure and facilities. It is also recognized as the base camp for Mount Kailash, from which the circumambulation (parikrama) around the mountain begins. Please remember to fill your water bottle with hot water and bring along the snack pack provided by our crew in the morning. All pilgrims will have the opportunity to pass through Yama Dwar before the trek begins. After visiting Yama Dwar, you may continue your journey on foot or opt to hire a horse or pony for the ride. Those wishing to hire a horse or pony, as well as a porter, can do so directly with the assistance of the Tibetan guide on a cash payment basis. A name coupon will be provided to select your horse and porter, who will accompany you throughout the trek. After completing a gradual 12-kilometer trek, during which you will traverse beautiful rivers and grasslands, you will encounter a magnificent black mountain towering on the right side of your path. This is the North Face of Mount Kailash. Be sure to take photographs and selfies to capture this remarkable sight. Upon reaching Dirapuk, you will check into the guesthouse where accommodations and dinner have been arranged for the night. As the evening will be quite cold and the oxygen levels low, it is advisable to rest as much as possible to ensure good health for the trek the following day.

Note:  Individuals who wish to modify their itinerary and opt out of trekking will remain in Darchen, where they will be responsible for directly covering their accommodation, meals, and any other supplementary costs. Nevertheless, if their health allows, they are encouraged to visit Yam Dwar for a closer darshan of Mt. Kailash.

Visit Charan Sparsh from Dirapuk : Charan Sparsh, situated at an elevation of 5,475 meters, is a three-kilometer trek from Dirapuk. Travelers may seek guidance from a tour guide to embark on this brief journey to reach the base of Mt. Kailash, which is revered as the embodiment of Lord Shiva. It is important to note that this trek is not included in the standard package and is contingent upon weather conditions and the recommendations of the guide. The trek covers a distance of three kilometers and typically takes approximately two hours one way, presenting a significant challenge.

Rise early in the morning, just before dawn, and if the skies are clear, do not miss the opportunity to behold the magnificent sight of 'Golden Kailash' as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the summit of the mountain. Following this remarkable experience, it is time to proceed with our trek to Zuthulpuk. This 22-kilometer journey represents the longest and most challenging day of the entire pilgrimage, as it involves traversing the highest point at Dolma La pass, which stands at 5,630 meters. Along the route, prior to reaching Dolma La, one can observe sites marked by the footprints of Milarepa and Shiva Tsal. This latter location is where pilgrims traditionally leave behind personal belongings, offer a drop of blood or a lock of hair, symbolizing their desire to relinquish worldly ties and seek liberation from suffering. According to Tibetan Buddhist beliefs, offerings made at Shiva Tsal are said to be rewarded in the afterlife. Continue the ascent towards Dolma La pass (5,630 meters) and then descend steeply to Gauri Kund. It is advisable to cross the high pass as early as possible to avoid the onset of strong winds.

Upon descending from Dolma-La, Gauri Kund, also known as Parvati Kund, will be visible on the right side of your path. After continuing downhill for a short distance, we will pause for a packed lunch near a tea stall. The descent from Dolma La can be challenging due to the presence of rocky and loose stones, necessitating careful navigation and remaining with the group for any assistance required. Subsequently, you will soon encounter a flat trail leading to Zuthulphuk Gompa, situated at an elevation of 4790 meters. In Zuthulphuk, accommodations will be provided in either a lodge or a fixed tent, complete with a bed, bed sheet, and warm blanket. We will enjoy a quick dinner before retiring to our warm beds to relax.

Important remark:  Individuals who choose not to proceed on the trek from Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk will return to Darchen. Upon arrival in Darchen, they will be responsible for their own expenses related to accommodation, food, and other necessities. Our guide may provide assistance in arranging their stay at a hotel in Darchen, depending on availability. Those not participating in the parikrama will have the option to wait in Darchen to relax or engage in meditation.

Important Note : The trek of approximately 3-4 kilometers (both ascent and descent) near Dolma La Pass is characterized by steep and rocky terrain, making it the most challenging segment of this journey. Additionally, it is not recommended to descend to Gauri Kund, as this may pose safety risks. Before commencing the trek to Zuthulpuk, please ensure that you fill your flask with hot water prepared by our kitchen team in the morning.

Breakfast will be provided in proximity to the guesthouse or camp, allowing guests to spend the morning exploring the nearby caves and visiting the temples and shrines in the area. Visitors will encounter an elderly married couple overseeing the temple, which serves as a residence for several Tibetan devotees, helpers, and relatives who are engaged in the upkeep of the facilities. The cave also features meditation platforms. Ascending to these caves before concluding the final leg of the holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a rewarding experience. We will trek approximately 6 kilometers from Zuthulpuk to Chongdo, where our vehicles will be ready for pick-up. A further 6-kilometer drive will take us to the Darchen hotel, where other group members who did not undertake the trek or have returned from Dirapuk will be waiting. We will then continue our journey to Taklakot for an overnight stay.

Following an early breakfast, embark on a 45-kilometer drive to the China-Nepal border. Proceed to cross the border on foot, and upon completing the necessary immigration procedures, arrive at Hilsa on the Nepalese side. From there, take a 25-minute helicopter flight to Simikot, after which you will connect to a flight to Nepalgunj. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, you will board a connecting flight to Kathmandu.

You will eventually be transferred to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport to board your flight back to your hotel or next destination. It is advisable for travelers to schedule their outbound flights from Kathmandu to their home with a day or two of buffer time to mitigate the impact of any unforeseen delays during the trip.